2016 Mercedes-Benz E 1.9L Diesel · CP02 ADP

The most recent MOT test on 2025-09-01 resulted in a passing outcome, though it included two advisories related to tyre wear that are approaching the legal limits, specifically on both the offside and nearside rear tyres worn close to the minimum legal tread depth and exhibiting edge wear. Additionally, there was a nearside front lower suspension ball joint noted to have slight play, which is a critical advisory under 5.3.4(a)(i) and indicates progressive wear in a load-bearing component. The absence of any failures in the preceding three MOTs—from 2022 to 2024—suggests a stable maintenance trend thus far, but the recurrence of advisories in the most recent test signals a need for closer attention to wear progression rather than a sudden deterioration. The fact that the vehicle has not failed an MOT despite these advisories implies that the wear may be gradual and manageable, but proactive intervention is advisable before the advisories escalate into defects. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 105,024 miles at the time of the latest MOT represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 10,502 miles per year, which is typical for a 10-year-old Mercedes-Benz E-class under normal driving conditions. This level of mileage does not inherently indicate excessive wear beyond what is expected from the vehicle’s age and usage profile, but it does warrant consideration of how the mileage was accumulated. A significant gap in MOT testing—particularly if the vehicle sat stationary for extended periods—could have led to issues such as corrosion in standing components, particularly brakes and suspension elements, or fluid degradation from stagnation. Conversely, rapid mileage accumulation might accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension bushes, though the current advisories do not strongly suggest this scenario. The absence of higher mileage figures in the MOT history supports the likelihood that the vehicle has been maintained within reasonable operational parameters. For a prospective buyer, the advisories on the rear tyres worn close to the legal limit and the nearside front lower ball joint with slight play are the primary concerns requiring immediate inspection. The tyre wear, especially on the edges, may indicate misalignment, underinflation, or excessive camber angles, which can lead to further uneven wear or even hydroplaning risks. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front suspension, particularly clunks or rattles when driving over bumps, which could signal further ball joint or bush wear. The nearside front lower ball joint’s slight play is a red flag for potential steering instability or reduced handling control, so check for excessive play in the steering wheel or steering wheel angle when the vehicle is stationary. If the ball joint is confirmed to be worn beyond the advisory threshold, replacement is strongly recommended to prevent premature failure of the suspension arm or steering system. Beyond the advisories, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural and functional components. Given the vehicle’s age and the potential for prolonged standing, inspect the brake discs and calipers for signs of corrosion, binding, or uneven wear, which can indicate standing corrosion or thermal damage from frequent braking. Check the brake fluid reservoir for contamination or fluid degradation, as standing fluid can become sludge-like over time, compromising braking performance. The suspension components, including coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes, should be examined for signs of fatigue, cracks, or excessive wear, particularly in areas exposed to road debris. Additionally, verify the condition of the 12V battery and starter motor, as prolonged inactivity can lead to corrosion or failure. Finally, since the vehicle has not been serviced within the last 12 months, confirm the presence of any service book stamps or records for the last scheduled maintenance, including oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid top-ups, to ensure the vehicle has been kept up to date with time-based servicing.